Don't Buy Van Cleef & Cartier...

[@cathydavis8212]

During my time working on Wall Street, I developed a strong aversion to the Love bracelet & Alhambra jewelry. Wealthy women wear them like flags, broadcasting "I am rich". It takes little imagination, but a lot of money to buy these pieces, and they end up being quite common in a certain crowd. I find them quite boring. Almost all my fine jewelry is handmade by a jeweller I know personally, and I never see it on anyone else.

[@ajlajkitbre]

👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@KateWoodehouse]

A lot of the high-end, labeled and branded designer things are worn as 'signals' of real or faked 'affluence'. That's why I laughed that 'quiet luxury' became a trend. I predict it won't last long because for a lot of people wearing them, being 'loud' about the designer goods IS the point.

[@bperez8656]

I agree. It has become so prevalent, that it is now loud and tacky.

[@bperez8656]

@@mapletree101 in todays world where culture has disintegrated Ppl desperately want to find their tribes. That’s why I think otherwise classy girls from good families will resort to riding trends in order to associate with ppl like them. It’s a symptom of broken culture, rather than simply individual failure

[@mounag8518]

@@mapletree101 Hey , uggs are a necessity where I live with the extreme cold. I own 5 pairs not because they're trendy or whatever but just because they are good shoes for our Canadian weather

[@nhny58]

Happily, I inherited my love bracelet from my grandmother who purchased it back in the 1970s, so I’m safe. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Love Cartier still and Tiffany’s.

[@nakatossagala3674]

Awwww that’s beautiful

[@kristinrogers2586]

I too have walked into Costco for a case of La Croix and paper towels and walked out with diamond bracelet 🤣

[@janmauro282]

Hi Cassie! I had a ring made for my Mom many years ago by a small local jewelry maker. He designed it, sourced the rubies and yellow gold, and let me just say, it has tripled in value. The quality of the ring is amazing! Great video Cassie!💕☺️🇨🇦

[@bydanak]

I fell in love with Chopard ice collection. I considered Tiffany and Cartier, but it is so boring as too many ppl own it and know it. Chopard is my definite go to at the moment. Pure gold and diamonds definitely worth investment as opposed to CC fake metals for same price or even above..

[@tammygolden9022]

Love that you recorded this video. There are SO MANY beautiful “indie” brands in jewelry, clothing and art that people overlook. And sometimes they are much closer aligned to someone’s personal style than any of the larger brands. Support small business ❤

[@MANI-ee7vr]

Yes ℹ totally agree as a small business designer soon in school for business administration and fashion merchandising . I be doing both jewelry and clothing my brand will be called Jream

[@bleydelic1]

Can you share contacts of that Small shops?

[@rigrace]

Also please support brands who source their gold and gemstones from fair suppliers 🙏 Mining gemstones is often extremely dangerous for the workers who barely earn anything

[@JamieReviewsStuff]

I was going to purchase a Van Cleef bracelet for myself, but had no idea if I’d enjoy wearing a bracelet daily. Ended up getting a 18k gold, pave Diamond bracelets from Mejuri (during Black Friday) first to see if I enjoyed wearing it and ended up loving it so much I didn’t even care about getting the VC&A one anymore (mostly cause they are delicate and I can wear the one I got everywhere). Really worked out as this one was a fraction of the price of the one I was eyeing.

[@ohjinmyoung7350]

In the heart of Seoul we have a street, actually a hood that has around 1000 shops. There are factories around them that makes the jewelry and some even work with some factories in the provinces where the stones are polished. There are unique pieces, yes, but lets get real. Cheaper fashion brands almost always imitate a high end brand. Engagement rings are almost always a knockoff of a Cartier 4 prong ring or a Tiffany 7 prong ring engagement ring for example. Bracelets are quite often Cartier inspired. As every tailor has the Chanel 2 piece suit in the back of her head..that is the way it goes. So I understand why someone would want to go to a high end brand for fine jewelry. Cheaper brands simply do not have the resources for R&D. I ordered a lovely lab diamond, emerald cut stones eternity ring. I specifically asked for it and we worked out the details together...I only later learned that kind of ring is a hallmark of Graff. I was ignorant. I probably saw it in some magazine and forgot about it, and wanted it later. I will never walk into a Graff shop with that ring. Sure, I got it at a 100th of the price but..well..it makes me uncomfortable. My mom so small ring and blithely said, "oh you got a fake Graff? cool'

[@lelasophia]

Yesssss!!!!!! So so glad to see more of your fine jewelry content!!! As a independent fine jewelry designer myself, I started my own KZbin channel off this very premise to give recognition to the incredible fine jewelry brands I’ve loved and worked with/alongside for over a decade 🙏🏼 it always shocks me how little content is made championing for us independent designers so this just made me smile 😍☺️🫶🏼🙏🏼❤️

[@LodenJakupcak]

*preluxs* just wanna tell you that you make my day with your videos. you have srsly helped me through not so happy times!!! thank you.

[@mimilynn5619]

I agree with you. But the way my heart flutters when I wear my Van cleef jewelry is worth every penny.🥰

[@catherineofsweden24]

Me too.

[@lexiaussi237]

As a childfree chick who is obsessed with jewelry, I buy what I want without thoughts about who it will be passed down to. That being said, I still am pretty intentional about what I purchase because I’ve made mistakes buying stuff that isn’t my style, and the resale market is VERY fickle. 😩🤣 Thank you for shouting out small vendors. I’ve seen jewelers who started on Etsy and now have their own sites blossom beautifully, and it really is exciting to see their creativity. Another way to lean into unique jewelry options is to buy vintage… it’s hard to go wrong with classic pieces in sterling silver and 14k+ gold. Happy Shopping, everyone! 🥳

[@GlitteranGold]

Right that’s the nice thing about me being a child free woman also. We can treat are selves to nice things were as in if there’s a kid in the picture you can hardly ever treat yourself or even your spouse with something there an then. Child free is an amazing freeing life to have yes I’m 24 an I never plan on being a mom it’s not for me an I will not let society pressure me into something I don’t wanna do. Not to mention my horrible childhood I had.

[@ngo7156]

Same here but I'm in my early forties. No regrets about not having kids here.I have more money and freedom to go on vacation and buy jewelry. I agree about vintage jewelry and jewelry on Etsy. I'm big fans of them. I bought a diamond bracelet in yellow gold that I have never seen one like it anywhere. The bracelet is made up of thick, 14k yellow gold square shaped pyramids with the top of each square pyramid with a single diamond on top surrounded by a small square shaped halo of diamonds around it. That motif is all around the bracelet. To me it looks edgy and a different spin on a classic diamond tennis bracelet. ❤ 😊

[@baycal2]

lol it seems like you have something to prove with all you wrote? The initial comment had nothing to do with justifying having kids or not. She merely mentioned her reasoning behind buying jewelry doesn't include thinking about passing it down@@GlitteranGold

[@alicia-rw]

I’m sure most people buy jewelry not thinking about passing it down, just like granny lol, she just happened to get old and had generations that she contributed to the Earth that she decided she would share some of the things she enjoyed in her lifetime. Childfree people are so strange, and always have to over explain their choice.

[@szynszyliszys]

It feels to me like Love Brancelet and V&A range are new Gucci Belt. Honestly, it is a thing that so many people buy mindlessly just because it feels like a "classic piece" everyone should have. In reality, it means to me that the person getting it is heavily influenced and cannot make up their mind on what they like and just follows the trends. Because none of these brancelets looks like it is worth near of what it costs. Personally, I like finding boutique local jewelers that will have exceptional quality items for better prices. Or buying in locations where for example gemstones are much much cheaper like Sri Lanka.

[@CassieThorpe]

Not the Gucci belt 😂🙈🙈

[@nikkibrittain]

So true

[@ruthlimon1892]

I personally think ppl buy for different reasons. I luv VCA and Cartier knowing I’m paying for the brand and not the weight but I’m ok since it’s the emotion that it brings me JOY. To each their own. Enjoy all in good health. Luv your channel 💕

[@rv7788]

Im the only sales associate at a small custom fine jewelry shop in San Francisco... soooooo much more fun to work with truly heirloom items. I wish more younger people felt comfortable coming in... no need to feel pressure to buy something, i love educating and playing in the jewels!

[@atana117]

Ooo which shop?

[@rv7788]

​@atana117 ive worked at a few! One called Fiat Lux and another called Partita -- both have shoppable websites. 😊

[@mairenevergara2985]

I hope more SA like you.

[@michelleelmore5533]

@@rv7788I will have to check them out thank you 😊

[@user-bg9ws7ys4k]

Actually, I wouldn't even dream of buying fine jewellery from famous brands because you pay at least 70% for the name alone. If you want to sell it you will get only a fraction for the precious metal content...unless you have a trusted jeweler who will pay for the metal content or he has customers who are willing to pay for the name. Mind you this is just my experience and homework I did when realising that you get fleeced...some jewelers do it with more charm than others 😊.

[@CassieThorpe]

I hear you 🙌🏽

[@vanessabogaert2104]

Not necessarily. I get all my pieces appraised for insurance purposes, and my Cartier love bracelet is actually pretty comparable in price to my indie brand bracelet of the same weight. If you want to sell, you need to go through an auction house, and that’s where having a recognized brand matters. My love bracelet sold for almost what I paid for it, but they wouldn’t even take the indie pieces that I wanted to sell. So buy indie if you want something original in design, but you’re not necessarily getting a better price.

[@doviemeh]

​@vanessabogaert2104 pretty much agree with you there. I have the same story I had mine appraised and the value for what I paid for when I purchased it from the local jewelry store is way lower which made me feel sick on my stomach. "per current gold value" . Then I used to own a love bracelet bangle style and I sold it as I wanted to buy a rainbow love that time and I was surprised the value of the love bangle was more than what I paid for. So that's how I stop buying from local jewelry store and invested to luxury brands like cartier. I purchased my rainbow love 8 years ago and I think I paid over 7k now I looked in pre loved prices are from almost 9k to 13k.

[@Mar1a_Vieira]

I think those trendy pieces are nice but let me tell you, nothing compares to the 18 or 24 carat pieces handed down through the generations 🤭. The weight, the originality, the quality- chefs kiss 😚 If you’re lucky enough to inherit a few pieces, hold on to them.

[@theswiftvet7107]

24 carat?! I was always told 24ct is too soft to make into jewellery on its own so the highest carat you can get is 22??

[@Mar1a_Vieira]

@@theswiftvet7107 I’m no expert but my family have a few pieces which are 24k. Maybe best to ask an artisan or jeweller.

[@fashionandluxury101]

I agree but I’m still getting my Tiffany, VCA and Cartier 😊you made excellent points . It’s about brand, trust, and what the jewelry’s worth in years to come. Local jewelry is whimsical “ unique” it’s good to have both in your collection ( if possible)😊❤

[@CassieThorpe]

Yes! I completely get that 🙌🏽💖

[@merrywalsh2809]

Cassie, what a great original video. Subbed. 🌸 Here in Hawaii, we revere our Hawaiian Heirloom jewelry, chiefly the 14K gold bangles, so collecting regional favorites is another route. The first Hawaiian Heirloom bangle was one made in the 1860s for the future Queen Lili’uokalani. It was fashioned after Victorian Mourning bracelets made popular by Queen Victoria in 1861 after the death of her beloved Prince Albert. The English version featured black glass enamel Old English lettering encircled with gold carvings of English Heraldic design. Our Hawaiian versions feature carvings of Hawaiian botanicals, such as maile leaf and plumeria, with Old English lettering either all gold, or black enamel.

[@Wanderingplumeria]

Yes! We often get them when a big milestone happens, and then pass them down. I love it when you see a Tutu with her stack of heirloom bracelets, usually a story for each one. I got one with my daughter's name after she was born and it will be passed on to her when she is grown and graduates or gets married. I get all my Hawaiian jewelry custom-designed and made for me.

[@DomKBeauty]

Individuals will appreciate this video so much, and shout out to Costco and Sam’s for the fine jewelry!

[@LeylaPeeran]

YES GIRL! Thank you for posting this. I worked at a local fine jewelry store and there are so many cool, small brands that people don't pay attention to or even know about! LOVE YOU!!

[@ThaSweetHart]

Thank you for doing another fine jewelry video. If you didn’t know anything about fine jewelry and were only introduced to it via social media, you’d think there were only about 3 brands. Also, Etsy and antique sellers are other good options for more affordable and unique fine jewelry.

[@CassieThorpe]

Haha so true! And yes I forgot about those options too! 💖

[@seabreeze4559]

Beware some etsy sellers are lying about vintage or antique items and actually reproduce the items in India or China. Fake vintage is ....real.

[@Skyebright1]

@@seabreeze4559 true I would definitely do my research about which sellers to trust

[@Dedeisluxe]

I recently received 2 Tiffany bracelets from my bf for my birthday and I’m so over the moon. Although I still love Cartier, Tiffany has both the trendy and classic elements I look for in fine jewelry. The hardware bracelet and the double knot bangle stack well with my panthere watch

[@EssieSpring]

I couldn’t agree more Cassie!!! Jewelry is so personal and by its very nature so precious, it should reflect *you* the wearer/owner. I have a local jeweller that I have make things up for me when I am making a big purchase. I love all of the suggestions you made today, with all of the colourful designs, how can you not feel joy when you look at these designs! Especially when you are in the Van Cleef/Cartier price range, there are so many more interesting choices that better reflect your personality. And you are so right don’t sleep on Costco 😂 my dad bought my mum a 15 carat Diamond necklace there and it’s stunning!

[@sarin216]

Unfortunately, social media has made it easy for brands to be oversaturated. I'm truly over the basic items you mentioned from the usual brands. I really appreciate you showing different brands.

[@eventingirl001]

I feel like Cartier and Van Clef items will go the way of the Tiffany charm/tag items. Those early 00s, everyone who could get one from Tiffany had a bracelet or necklace or they got the knockoffs. Soon, everyone was wearing it that it wasn't special anymore and they all seemed to disappear at the bottom of the jewelry box. I don't think they will completely go away but I think they will become the new entry item into luxury jewelry.

[@Lovecookie67]

Plain love juc and vca vintage in non diamond are all entry level pieces. Consumers have just bought into the marketing schemes that these are special. They’re not.

[@shineefeak]

Right on Cassie especially since I've started building my stack! I've always wanted to get cartier bracelets until i discovered beautiful diamond cut 22k gold bracelets and bespoke gemstone jewelry at my local jeweller. 1/4 of the price that are unique and now I'm obsessed! And its shocking that cartier's are only 18k gold...

[@blktauna]

@@Clarityismine I live for high carat gold! :)

[@kaozzzzzzzzz1]

@@Clarityismine where did you go abroad to purchase gold and for how much?

[@janeseemann2527]

There’s a reason jewellers don’t use 24k gold. It’s simply too soft. And whilst I don’t subscribe to mass marketed jewellery it is sensible for the longevity of the product that their jewellers think about the physical and chemical properties of the metals with which they work.

[@blktauna]

@@janeseemann2527 My .9999 pieces last a fair number of years of daily wear so I'm not wholly behind believing its too soft. I just lost my 30 odd year old jade ring and that was because the stone broke, not the gold. I made decent money back from it when I sold the scrap.

[@katemiller7874]

Wayyy to soft. Silly girl

[@pageremick5504]

I TOTALLY AGREE! Widen your horizons and pick designs that attract you for the style that suits you, rather than what EVERYONE is wearing. If I see another 'love' bracelet I think I'll scream! There are thousands of fabulous designs in high end jewelry that can be YOUR style. Stop following the crowd and collect pieces that are unique to YOU. Well said Cassie!!! Annnnd.... thank you for some creative suggestions of other jewelry collections!

[@sarah-ui1gd]

As a middle eastern i ve both in my collection fine jewelry and brands … what i like from brands names is their stones bcs i ve always skeptical about the stones are real or fake so i go with brands like Cartier ,VCA& Bulgari etc.. bcs i trust it for stones

[@Emanuela1003]

Cassie is giving us original and thoughtful content! Refreshing as usual! Lots of love from Rome, Italy😘💖💗

[@CassieThorpe]

Thank you!! 😭💖

[@csm92459]

Cassie--I'm really surprised that you didn't bring up vintage jewelry. A friend got his fiance an engagement ring at a local (but very well known) vintage jeweler. He definitely paid a bit of a premium with the ring having their "stamp" of authenticity behind it, but he also got a 3 stone ring in a platinum setting with workmanship that is almost inconceivable now. (You really needed to study the ring under a magnifying glass to appreciate the beauty of the setting.) It was from the late '30s-and I'd bet he spent less than the 1 carat in the blue box. (His ring center stone was just less than a carat, 2 flanking stone were a bit more than a carat combined--so approx. 2 carats total.)

[@sarahelizabeth1487]

i loveee this type of videos where you expand our view on some other brands that are not necessarily mainstream, because tbh the media is making some brands look "too much of too much" and its starting to feel like everybody has/want the exact same things. there is almost no uniqueness anymore.

[@MartaCanga]

Listennnn! I have a Van Cleef Alhambra and Cartier Love Bangle - and I love them both. Having said that, I had wanted those for quite a few years. Now that they've been ticked off my list, I'm definitely more open to getting other pieces that are a bit more unique. The Bvlgari Serpenti, Messika, and Tiffany Hardware ranges are amazing, but also open to the options you described. Thanks for the video! Love your energy xx

[@Skyebright1]

Chaumet and Chopard?

[@mini0001]

Great video! I’ve loved VCA and Cartier since I was a small child much before their rise in social media and will continue collecting regardless of the trends- most of the fakes are awfully done and I can almost always tell. I think these brands will stand the test of time I don’t see them going anywhere, and they’re not that easy to get from the store. I waited almost 6 months for my VCA 10 motif 😂

[@sflower1533]

Same as me. I had adored Cartier Trinity Ring and Love Bracelet, VCA MOP bracelet as a teen. And I purchased all of them before all the hype. These brand do have high markup price but surprisingly I just sometimes can't find an equal quality of craftmanship easily of a design that I like

[@aidak8919]

Same! I will always love Cartier, trendy or not! I have a ton of fine jewelry but only consistently wear my Cartier bracelets and necklace. I just love them.

[@rinitruong]

I agree. I remember when my dad got my mom a trinity ring and love bracelet and the symbolism was always so beautiful to me. Sadly I haven’t had anyone meaningful buy me a love bracelet, but that won’t stop me from wearing it 😂❤

[@jaad9848]

Cartier wont even authenticate love bracelets because they cant tell so I find it hard to believe that people saying they can tell is anything more than delusion

[@sflower1533]

@jaad9848 As long as I know mine is real because I bought it since there is the purchase history under my name with registered serial number, why is there the need for authentication? I bought my VCA more than 15 years ago and recently went to get it shortened and they still had my purchase history and received a great service. But true, the price is getting too high these days but my MOP also has tripled in value and I am keeping it forever because of sentimental reasons.

[@ziannahlldecastro]

Great video! I am tired of seeing the same stacks all over social media. There is no individuality. It is one of the reason why I love you pieces and suggestions 😊

[@Berryeditssvt]

Informative as always! Cassie, could you make a video of the luxury bags that you would buy under $2000! ✨

[@CassieThorpe]

Adding this to my list!

[@ubiquitousflow]

Or fine jewelry under 2k🙏🏽

[@Luxurious.shayyy]

Yes please

[@heyheykaykay1]

Yessssss!!!!

[@Skyebright1]

@@ubiquitousflow Helas jewellery ;)

[@monimarz]

I desperately needed this video. I am beyond uninspired by most jewellery that influencers wear because it seems to be redundant. I'm so happy you made this. Cheers!

[@loriblack5785]

So agree, when I see the constant copy catting and oversaturation, just don't want it myself anymore.

[@kathyfilyaw201]

One of my Passions is Jewelry….all kinds of Jewelry! I love Contemporary and Vintage. There is a story I like to think about that goes along with my vintage pieces and the Contemporary tend to be Fun and Unique. Customer Service when it’s good means so much. I recently purchased from SHAY…the Cassie collaboration in the Lilac and they were so kind and prompt when I encountered a small issue. Well Done for bringing this topic up!

[@AdamRidgway1]

You are so right about the same stacks being shown. This video in general is like a diamond lovers dream 🥰🥰🥰

[@meganbetts9624]

While I have purchased Tiffany I know I’m paying a ridiculous markup. What I’ve found more interesting is shopping estate (pre-loved) jewelry. The prices are fabulous & I love the treasure hunt feeling of searching for a unique piece. I found a gorgeous platinum art deco ring with 1.5 carats for a fraction of the big names. I have shopped Costco for jewelry….. their less expensive items are hollow, not solid metal but that didn’t stop me from buying affordable hoops.

[@heyyjanuary5256]

I used to work for the wholesale jewelry industry years ago. And I much prefer bespoke jewelry to pre-made/large brand name jewelry. However, I do own some store bought jewelry for daily wear--not brand name. Jewelry in general has a markup even for small business/local jewelers but especially an even higher markup for brand name jewelry. Great informative video!! 🙌🏽

[@yveje9720]

I love this video and concept, shout out to these smaller brands that still give quality fine jewelry. Definitely love Van Cleef and even Cartier but it's good to have different options

[@uu7794]

Also wanted to say thanks bc of you I found a perfect pair of earrings via Farfetch (that I can afford lol) from your previous video about this subject. The earrings have a same stone and match my late grandmas ring that I cherise.

[@crystalcandles752]

Having a local jewler is where it's at

[@CassieThorpe]

🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@gee5598]

Another point to consider is the trading price of gold, platinum and silver on the stock market at any given time. The brand mark-up becomes even more apparent and quantifiable when one is comparing a name brand 18kt gold bracelet to one made from a local goldsmith with the same weight/mass of gold.

[@MarchionessDarby62]

I can attest to jewelry’s growth since the pandemic - this summer, I had bought a Sweet Alhambra necklace, and as I headed down Rodeo Drive for my appointment to have the chain lengthened, I noticed the very apparent increase in numbers of jewelry shops vs. clothing shops. And brands that had never had a shop on Rodeo before now had one, and sometimes two. That includes Panerai, Richard Mille, and others. It was a little shocking - and I also noticed even in 2023 the stantions for waiting lines, and the sharp increase in security at every single entrance. Amazing. Van Cleef, however, remained tasteful, though you do have to ring the bell to be admitted. Anyway, it was an interesting experience.

[@carrotsanti]

this video KILLED me because I just collected my SO from VCA 😭😭 but oh my god. The boochier ties bangle you recommended came in rose gold MIXED with white gold pave and I am in LOVE. You truly always know how to find and spotlight these amazing brands that do such unique one of a kind pieces! Definitely putting that Boochier on my wish list.

[@CassieThorpe]

🙈🙈congrats on your SO though! Glad I could introduce you to Boochier 🤩🤩

[@internetjunky4327]

what does SO mean

[@KathyRichards-tr9zx]

@@internetjunky4327 special order

[@mildredflemyng-middleton4795]

The thing I really like about jewelry is that it's easier to find items that fit my plus-size self, and it tends to fit better through weight fluctuations. But also, SHINY!

[@alisonf6576]

Great video. There's no individuality - it's like Pandora for rich people.

[@TheDestineyy]

Right, I don’t get why people want the same things as everyone else.

[@boayden9971]

Thanks for this Cassie. Love how you keep it reel and give us good information. That is way i hit your 🔔.👍🏿 I love my hook bracelet i bought in St. Croix & Curaçao. And my bamboe bracelet i bought in Bali. And those bracelets are timeless pieces of jewelry you don't see on everybody, so i am in ❤ everything i see them on my wrist.😍 Still love for everybody who loves there Cartier Love bracelet, there are old skool classic's bracelets. I like there Panthère line🐅. I also buy vintage jewelry, also nice to find something different & unique. Can't wait for your next video. 🙋🏿‍♀️ from Amsterdam. 💍🛍😊

[@sasamilic720]

THANK YOU. Jewelry is really somewhere that you can be crazy creative in your outfit. There are so many amazing local jewelers around the world and it's really fun to pick up unique pieces while traveling. I never understood why anyone would wear some overpriced jewelry that every second woman seems to have.

[@happysunangel1]

Thank you for this video, if I may add, another way to find unique jewelry is to shop for antique jewelry. I’ve found some amazing one of a kind jewelry at a fraction of the cost of some of these name brands.

[@minwade5436]

Hi Cassie, I’ve had my wedding, engagement & eternity rings all remodeled after my Mum & Nana passed away. I took all 7 18ct gold rings/diamonds & had a jeweller sketch ideas I now have 3 rings which are very unique. I also have bought the slim love bracelet with 10 diamonds, it took years for me to acquire & I wear quite happily with a tennis bracelet. A mix of both is the best way to go imo. Great vlog TVM. Take care. Best wishes from Adelaide; South Australia🇦🇺💐

[@evelynmelian-glick436]

Love this video! Great reminder to look at other places too. I like mixing the super lux brands with basic ones.

[@oharaish]

This is one of the best video cass cass .. its very informative and it shows that you do know how to balance your luxury addiction habit … its an eye opener to those people who only splurge on known brand … well done girl … your amazing ❤❤

[@ellb8795]

What a SPECTACULAR video! As a Tiffany, Cartier stack-wearer, I appreciate being introduced to other options. Thank you!!!

[@itsroween]

Coming from a long line of jewelry collectors this video is everything. Shoutout to the ppl that shop at the jeweler’s jeweler 😉

[@rocket4444]

my family never bought into the luxury jewelry brand hype. we have had a family jeweler for years and years who has made every engagement ring, necklace, and pair of earrings for our family. a cartier bangle is $7k and is only made of out ~$2k-$3k worth of gold. i honestly feel like people that buy those things have no idea what they're spending their money on, they just see the brand.

[@katemiller7874]

Or they don’t care and like the piece.

[@heibaimao]

I get what u mean. But ppl around will see their jewelry and instantly recognisable and know it's from a reputable and luxury brand. When one see a peice from your family jeweler, to put it bluntly, nobody gives a shit.

[@rocket4444]

@@heibaimao That's kind of proving my point - that people only buy from recognizable luxury brands because they care about what others think of them. They will intentionally pay for poorer quality items. I would prefer a nice quality diamond over a bunch of gold-plated brass designer jewelry

[@iiamkee21]

I have a single van cleef bracelet but my experience there was not the best customer service wise. Your collab with shay is on my Christmas wish list! I can't wait to get it !

[@a3zth3tikz]

this is why I like Ca$$ie she may be a luxury addict but she is not a brand snob unlike other people who ONLY buy name brands

[@drr7027]

If you are in the UK and are after diamonds, it’s well worth a trip to Birmingham’s jewellery quarter. There are a lot of independent jewellers, similar set up to London’s Hatton Garden, but a bit cheaper. My favourite jeweller there (Victoria James) made my engagement, wedding and eternity rings for way less (and higher quality) than most high street jewellers. And yes, i’ve got my eye on a pair of diamond earrings from Costco!

[@sandrasentertainment6634]

Im getting into luxury fine jewelry - ur videos is exactly what I needed -thxxx☺️ now I ve a lot of options that re not boring. 🙏🏾

[@Justme-x4h]

I honestly do a mix of both! I really love VCA particularly, I cannot help it, but I get other more unique pieces from my jeweler. Honestly the last thing I want is for people to know exactly how much money I wear on my wrist! 😂

[@hafsahumar8246]

I'm just like you! Van Cleef guilloche and pave pieces have my heart. But no way am I paying that much for brittle stones 😅 I mix with alot of custom, local jeweler pieces

[@rubiirae]

@@hafsahumar8246 it depends on the stones. for onyx and mop then i agree, VCA isn't worth it because onyx and mop always look the same across other brands and local jewelers. however, VCA does offer certain stones in spectacular quality with unique pattern and colorations, such as chalcedony and carnelian that are very durable, i have yet to see other brands offer the same stones in the same quality.

[@RichmondSajini]

This is super helpful. Looking forward to a Christmas gifting video... it's almost that time.

[@NeverHaveKids]

Absolutely correct: Costco has *very* high quality pieces at very competitive prices. And some of them are world-class, though big-carat items have high price tags. But we trust without question any jewelry, watch, or precious metal purchase from Costco.

[@anne-mariecouvrette3613]

Great suggestions. Thanks. We do get bored of seeing the same things all the time. What about the same for clothing?....

[@chelsea5226]

James Avery is an amazing fine jewelers company based out of Texas. They have counters in Dillards. Everything is handcrafted and beautiful

[@hotbons]

It’s funny you say this. JUC has been on my wishlist for years (not unlike the Chanel classic flap has been), but whenever it’s time to pull the trigger, I waiver and usually buy something else - like a loud luxury bag. I don’t have any (not inherited/passed down) fine jewelry yet, and maybe that’s because I’ve been going about it wrong. Perhaps I should be looking at more “me” fine jewelry brands. Thanks for the insights, Cassie! 🤗💜

[@CassieThorpe]

It doesn’t hurt to take a look! Also maybe it’s a sign that you keep wavering 👀💖

[@hotbons]

I think you’re onto something here! 😂🙌🏽

[@katherinem2512]

Love this video! Jewelry obsessed and I love the smaller, lesser known designers

[@valerieblouch5409]

I love jewelry!! I love what I love and I only buy what I love. I have a rose gold heart locket from Kabana I'm obsessed with. Thanks for opening the horizons for jewelry lovers!!💞

[@lundi44]

Another killer video - I love your fashion analyses with trends, brands etcetera.

[@509734]

Thank you Cass for saving me from springing for that Van Cleef and my gf from giving me a “oh dear he tried” face

[@CassieThorpe]

🫡🫡😂

[@fairrahjackson6240]

I just asked my husband for a VC and I definitely wouldn’t give him a side eye. I think they match so many looks. If you gf likes the style, you should buy it. Plus it’s something she’ll wear daily!

[@blktauna]

I do not generally buy name jewelry. I buy high karat gold from China and India. Far more bang for the buck. I also lurk second hand for interesting old pieces. I can get a lot more from a custom Chinese maker for 5K than from VCA. Its good to remind folks there are solid alternatives,

[@dylanmerry3846]

I bought a Cartier love bracelet from a friend for wayyy cheaper then they’re sold and it is def my favorite piece, I understand why they are such a fan favorite

[@marilynfarley9213]

Happy Monday Cassie. This sounds like good advice to me, & I am here for it. Taking notes as well. Thanks Cassie. 🥰💛.

[@CassieThorpe]

Aahhh I’m happy it’s helpful! 💖💖💖

[@akathesiaK]

Thank you for this! I have a few relatives who are jewelers and am constantly amazed by the beautiful and creative custom pieces they make for a fraction of the cost of luxury brands. I've never understood why anyone would want something so generic and overpriced when its possible to have custom pieces made :/

[@emmyknowsbeauty810]

Can you please post/share their business information

[@akathesiaK]

@@emmyknowsbeauty810 I'm in Australia so it may not be too helpful but happy to DM if needed

[@Olenka_prozorova]

I really been enjoying my H.Stern collection. This is actually a Brazilian brand and except a few people nobody knows about it. I personally own a three pieces from them and the quality of the items are amazing.

[@Seemstobereal]

Great video..most south Asian know the value of local Jewellery ..such lovely pieces available

[@StanleyPerry329]

I still love my LV reverse monogram *yutulux* clutch! It's versatile, fits a variety of items, and is definitely a workhorse! I think seeing it everywhere (like the LV speedy) is proof that it's already a classic.

[@CyberMercy]

One of my Ride Or Die changes post-pan' is making a conscious effort to support small, independant &local business over large international concerns. Great Vidi 😎☕💋

[@KaterynaNovakivska-i2w]

Cass, perhaps you could share you skincare favorites with us. Your skin is beautiful

[@shananick1128]

Absolutely agree with you Cassie. I feel that Cartier, Van Cleef, Tiffany are so overly done, if there is a word. The staging of it is crazy. I do own a VCA necklace in the vintage. That's all i need. The rest i go to my local jewelry with so much more lower price and more content of gold, 21k instead of 18K. I know the 21K is not everyone's cup of tea but i love it. Not those big ones but the smaller classic version are my favorite, and it is my everyday piece. Love your video 😍

[@alyajewellery]

Love Solange Azagury-Partidge. Just have the Hot Lips but hope to get one of the finer pieces.

[@loribdezngrl]

If you are lucky to have family heirloom hand me downs it’s wonderful. And maybe mix a couple of ‘trendy items in the stack. BTW, you look very beautiful, love the hair and makeup.

[@vivianfolsom9341]

Hi Cassie, this is my first video of yours I’ve seen. I’m a luxury and fine jewelry addict. I come by honestly, it’s hereditary. lol anyway, I actually have quite a large fine jewelry collection, I’ve picked up pieces all over the world! But I grew up knowing the same family jeweler that my grandmother used. It’s special when you have that level of respect and friendship. I also have picked up jewelry at estate sales, auctions, and even pawn shops! You just have to learn how to spot good quality. 😊

[@msjumanji1]

You need to add Nouvel Heritage to your list!! I think their bangles are more bang for your buck than Cartier and so cute to stack!!!

[@femmedenise3598]

These are interesting choices and nice pieces… I will have to look into it..but I still love the others more .. I will continue to buy from the bigger brands as well … the look is just it for me ❤

[@lesliecraven3087]

Spot on all of your reasons are good, but cut to the Chase. I’m so bored with love bangles or Alhambra motifs

[@Christine-iw9do]

Cassie , I have two love bracelets. I’ve had them for a while they were gifts from my husband so needless to say I really can’t sell them at this point, but I have learned my lesson and I definitely told him no more. I just wear them at this point . I wish I knew then what I know now … it’s amazing how my priorities have changed . I love luxury, but there are certain purchases I have made that I truly regret . I have sold so many of my Louis Vuitton purses, and David Yurman and Logos pieces of jewelry. Yes, I have taken a loss but I’d rather take the loss than them just sit in my drawer that makes no sense to me. At one point I thought about selling the bracelets but my sales associate said listen just wear them mix and match them with other things they were a lot of money, so just wear them and that’s what I’m doing. ❤

[@CassieThorpe]

Oh no!! You’re right to keep wearing them for sentimental value and mix them in with other pieces! We live and we learn 💖💖💖

[@sabinebaas4419]

I love local jewellers. My tennis bracelets were to long, so the pieces that were taken out were like 2cm long. I had a ear climber made from one piece and a ear cuff from the other. Also if you want a ‘bigger’ jewellery brand. I love love Messika. The move bangle in YG is on top of my list. I already have small pieces of the brand. So unique 🔥

[@CronkiteSwanhart]

Yes, *luxdups* handbags! I'm wearing candy pink and I've been rocking my "Barbie" bag all summer long. Yes!

[@hemmahwiernik]

A perfect Christmas surprise for my daughter! She's been longing for this sack to replace her Haan tote. The sheer joy on her face was priceless. It's incredible that she had her sights set on the exact same sack. What a stroke of luck! eastlisa

[@KylaMatriano]

I love art deco and vintage style jewelleries, so I always buy from family owned and independent jewellers like Pragnell and Pravins. 💍💎

[@oyinade84]

I am so glad you are saying this . There are so many more amazing designers making unique pieces . But the bandwagon effect on too many won’t allow them to utilize common sense towards fashion .

[@StealthWealth2045]

CA$$IE coming through with the content! I have been looking for some solid gold pieces to stack with and the Ring Concierge is just what I was looking for.

[@marissawilson9460]

My husband worked with a local jeweller to create my engagement ring and I love it so much because it’s so us and it’s unique as it’s the only one of its kind ❤

[@unnamed9572]

Most informative video i have watched so far about jewellery. I love the mention of the small lux brands

[@cj-fi8pk]

Costco…thank you! You always give great options that are realistic.

[@SundayRose99]

Totally agree with you on this video. 100% on better value for non-designer fine jewelry, except if they do lab-grown. Personally I’m not into lab-grown as I don’t believe they have a place in the definition of fine jewelry. There’s a specific purpose for lab-grown gems for industrial purposes. And it consumes tons of energy to produce them. I’m into the rare and the natural, placing value on timeless designs regardless if it’s from designer brands or local jeweler. But I’d strongly advise anyone to get things lab tested & get lab reports for high value pieces for peace of mind and for passing down as heirlooms. Great video Cassie♥️!!! I have a lot of say about the 2023 VCA holiday pendant but it will be unpopular to the general luxe community 😂😂😂

[@jesseybasi9358]

Cassie! I love your rings AND your nails! ❤